About The Breed
Size and beauty seem to attract many people to the Vizsla.
Their athletic form and motion are lovely characteristics.
However, this is by no means a low-maintenance dog. Their
need for exercise and companionship is above the norm.
They intend to be complete family members and actually
require close to the same time as a small child. Vizslas
want to be next to their people all the time and often
do not do well left alone for long days. They make poor
backyard or kennel dogs. Vizslas are often referred to
as Velcro dogs. Translated into plain language, that means
you may never use the bathroom alone again! Left on their
own, they become bored and often destructive as they find
things to do to entertain themselves. Return
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Exercise
Needs
All dogs need exercise, but the Vizsla needs faithful
daily physical exercise, as well as the mental stimulation
of games with you. This is one of the reasons so many
Vizsla owners participate in canine sports - for the
fun and to keep the Vizsla exercised. The Vizsla can
lie down on your lap and cuddle nicely, but not without
some stimulating interaction during the day. They don't
go out in the back yard and exercise themselves, even
with another dog. They insist you join them in all
activities. Return
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Training Needs
Vizslas are intelligent and quick learners. That can
be good and bad - depending on whether you or the dog
is manipulating the training. Vizslas are a sensitive,
soft dog that do not take punishment well and respond
poorly to harsh training methods. They also mature quite
slowly. A Vizsla is a puppy for at least 3 years. Realistic
expectations and a lot of patience are requirements to
live with a Vizsla. Return
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Vizslas and
Children
Vizslas can be good with children, but it is
not a given. As hunting dogs, they often do
not like to share items and particularly with toddlers.
Many breeds are not fond of toddlers, and Vizslas are
among them. The Vizsla does not have the pain tolerance
or patience of the Labrador when it comes to being hugged,
stepped on or cornered. Also, as hunting dogs, they are
very oral and tend to mouth small children. They often
knock them down and steal their toys and rarely appreciate
a small child moving in on their space when resting.
No small child should ever be left unsupervised with
any dog, so there is a lot of management involved in
having both.

Vizslas and
Cats or Other Critters
As a high drive hunting dog, many Vizslas do not do well
with cats. Much also depends on the particular cat. Those
that run or tease are usually chased down. It takes considerable
work to reach compatibility with the two species. Other
species are also typically considered prey to this breed.
So, if you have a house full of various other critters,
it would take an exceptional Vizsla to relax and blend
in. Return to Top